How bad does flying stink these days? Unless you’re the kind of person who can travel first class courtesy of an expense account or your own financial success, tons.

I’ve just been reminded of that — again — for both professional and personal reasons. Let’s start with the professional …

Yesterday, I saw on the newswires that JetBlue Airways (JBLU, Weiss Ratings: A-) is going to cave. It will start charging checked bag fees for its least expensive tickets early next year, leaving only Southwest (LUV, Weiss Ratings: A-) as bag-fee-free among the major carriers.

JetBlue will add bag fees and squeeze seats a bit closer together as it tries to boost profit.

Not only that, but it’s also going to cram more seats onto its planes — reducing the amount of leg room passengers have to stretch out. Its Airbus A320 planes will have 165 seats after the changes, up from 150. The refitting process will start in 2016.

For Wall Street, it’s great news. JetBlue estimates the bag fees will boost revenue by $65 million next year and $200 million over the next few years. Additional seats? That’s another $100 million.

A JetBlue executive actually had the gall to call these changes “upgrades.” That’s like execs from other airlines saying that all of these extra fees are great, because they give us the “choice” to pay for only the things we need to use. Like what? Clothes to wear at our destination? LOL.

That brings me to my latest personal experience. My stepson’s grandfather just passed away, necessitating a last-minute trip to Chicago for all of us. It’s a tough thing to deal with as is, and it’s even more frustrating when you learn that bereavement fares are no longer offered.

Meanwhile, the American Airlines telephone representative said she couldn’t seat everyone together despite the fact my stepson is still only 15 and we’re traveling to take part in a funeral. We would have to wait until getting to the airport and begging the gate agent for some understanding. That is, unless we paid either an extra $24 (per passenger) for “preferred seats” … or an extra $48 (per passenger) for “main cabin extra” seats.

What’s special about a preferred seat? Virtually nothing. It has the exact same legroom as a regular chair. Supposedly, it’s “favorably located.” But looking at a seat map for the flights, I don’t see a darn bit of difference.

They’re not in exit rows and many of them are middle seats anyway. One so-called “preferred” seat selling for an extra $20 on a return leg from Chicago was all the way back in row 31 — right by the galley and toilets!

“I don’t know about you, but all of this smacks of skyway robbery!”

True, the “main cabin extra” seats get you a few rows closer to the front of the plane and a “whopping” six extra inches of legroom. But that’s what? $48 per seat to get off the plane maybe a minute or two faster than someone further back?

Oh and to top it all off, we technically had to modify my stepson’s earlier booking for a “Thanksgiving Eve” flight rather than start a completely new booking. Result? We also had to shell out $200 in change fees!

I don’t know about you, but all of this smacks of “skyway robbery!” You pay a lot more than you used to. You get a lot less than you used to. And unless you’re a high roller, you get bad service to boot!

What do you think? Is flying as bad as I suggest? Or have your recent experiences been better? Have you noticed your flying bill go up lately, or your knees being even sorer when you get off the plane? Or am I making too much of the inconveniences of modern-day travel? Make sure you take advantage of the comment section at the Money and Markets website to add your two cents.

Our Readers Speak

It seems like almost everyone had some thoughts about the bout of severe weather, and what it means for the economy, retail sales, and their own livelihoods.

Reader Tommr said he doesn’t see what all the fuss is about. His take: “I see plenty of people out driving to some destination or other and out in the big stores spending hundreds every day. I am sure that very few, if any, of these people are One Percenters. They are the Ninety Percenters. All these people seem to have plenty of money to spend all the time!”

Reader John also said not to worry too much about the nasty November weather because it doesn’t necessarily signal even tougher times ahead. He said: “There appears to be almost no correlation between November weather and the rest of the winter. The Weather Channel ran the correlation dispersion for most of the past century, and it was virtually random.”

Heck, Reader Caron M. even said it’d be nice to have MORE of it — at least in the right parts of the country. The comments: “Interesting article as we sit here in the Pacific Northwest awaiting snow to even fall in the ski areas. As a ski instructor, I look forward to snow in the winter. I wish it were here!”

But Reader Don L. said weather isn’t the real threat to the economy — it’s a whole host of other things. His view: “With China’s economy slowing and Europe mired in recession and trying to fight off deflation … and all the while Germany is tiring of bailing out the weak who refuse to pursue austerity … are not these conditions likely to spill over to the U.S.? I see signs of deflation already.”

Personally, I’ll be getting my share of the cold in Chicago this weekend. But I’m lucky enough to come back to sunny, warm South Florida so I can’t complain too much.

As for the economy, we are still doing much better than the rest of the world — as the statistics I mention below demonstrate. But yes, the longer the weakness persists overseas, the greater the risk that it washes up on our shores.

Remember all those investigations and multi-billion-dollar bank settlements related to market rigging and other shady practices in precious metals, interest rates, and more? Looks like the problems are even more widespread, at least according to a fresh Congressional investigation of bank practices in the broader commodities market.

A two-year probeinto the operations of Goldman Sachs (GS, Weiss Ratings: A-), JPMorgan Chase (JPM, Weiss Ratings: A-) and other institutions found many potential problems. The banks reportedly purchased large amounts of physical commodities, exceeded limits on commodity holdings, and otherwise flouted or skirted rules for their own benefit — even as no completely illegal behavior was identified.

President Obama is going to use his executive powers to overhaul the immigration system, as part of a plan he’s going to lay out in a speech later tonight. Up to 5 million illegal immigrants will be protected from deportation, and given a chance to obtain work permits. But substantial opposition from the Republicans could derail broader immigration reforms.

On the economic front, existing home sales rose 1.5 percent to a seasonally adjusted annual pace of 5.26 million in October. That topped forecasts, and it left sales at a one-year high.

Meanwhile, the Philadelphia Fed index of manufacturing activity in that general area almost doubled to 40.8 in November from 20.7 in October. That was way above forecasts for a reading of 18.5, and the highest level in any month in 21 years.

Another day, another campus shooting. This time, it was at Florida State University where a gunman shot three students before being confronted and killed by FSU police. The early morning attack is just the latest shooting spree on elementary, high school, and college campuses in the U.S.

Until next time,

Mike Larson

P.S. Great news — for the next five days, you can get a one-year membership to Top Stocks Under $10 investment service for just $365. Click here for more details before this great offer runs out!

Mike Larson graduated from Boston University with a B.S. degree in Journalism and a B.A. degree in English in 1998, and went to work for Bankrate.com. There, he learned the mortgage and interest rates markets inside and out. Mike then joined Weiss Research in 2001. He is the editor of Safe Money Report. He is often quoted by the Washington Post, Reuters, Dow Jones Newswires, Orlando Sentinel, Palm Beach Post and Sun-Sentinel, and he has appeared on CNN, Bloomberg Television and CNBC.

{91 comments }

Mary Beh CaffeyThursday, November 20, 2014 at 4:59 pm

My trip home from Portland, ME to Corpus Christi, TX cost almost twice as much as usual this year. As for the knee space issue, I am 5′ 4″ and fairly short from hip to knee cap. It is not unusual to have the wire in the seat in front of me eating into my knee cap area, where I have moderate arthritis issues. It has always been a mystery to me how tall men can even sit in the seats. At age 57, I am old enough to remember the “good ol’ days” of flying when we complained about the quality of the food in our full meals that were provided at no extra charge.

Dan HThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:11 pm

You hit the nail on the head. It’s skyway robbery! I flew in September, and there’s no seat room to be had. Fares are sky high, and now going up while the airlines make more money thanks to cheaper fuel prices. An NBC story featured an airline rep talking about how they had to buy more airplanes and work on upgrades (adding seats?!?) with those extra profits. Even though this is an investor newsletter, I find it just plain wrong when airlines are more worried about serving their investors (and their execs) than they are their customers.

Lance CarstensThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:14 pm

Yeah, we’re slowly giving up the perks airlines used to pass out for free, and it’s a real pain when that happens- the airlines are all in ‘creative’ mode, looking for new ways to make an extra buck. Does anyone remember what it was like before deregulation in the airlines? I think it was in the ’60s (1960’s)- lots of extras,great service, but at a price that would floor us at today’s inflated prices. Bottom line, running an airline is a cutthroat business, & they’re looking for any way they can to increase profits. The wall will be hit when passengers pass on flying certain airlines because of the cattle car mentality some of them are getting. This is how we’re going to be heard

bill stappThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:19 pm

Thanks for the airline summary Mike which says it all. We do find Delta to be just a tad better than all the others but they really rip you off when you try to use frequent flier miles.Their “premium seats” in coach were 18 dollars and well worth it.We shelled out 36 each way from SF to Puerto Vallarta and the 72 dollars was well worth it on a very long flight, especially for tall people–I am 6’3″

Walter CaldwellThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:21 pm

Another moneymaking con perpetrated by airlines is that if you fail through no fault of your own to make the1st leg of a multi leg flight they will cancel the others and you’ll be forced to rebook at enormous expense. This practice is totally unjustifiable and should be illegal

bob schneiderThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:25 pm

Your comments are spot on. The first airline to offer wider,roomier. and nicely
padded with back support, two by two rows and no middles, will certainly attract
working people and travelers not afraid of somehat higher prices. Since many people
would not mind paying for hugh lity food on flights coast to coast, the airlines can
improve service and food quality with no loss of revenue. All seats should have
video screens, and no talking ever allowed on cellphones. Texting is quiet and private.
This is the formula a Jet Blue should institute, and first checked bag always included in
the price of the ticket. Bring back the enjoyment of flying instead of making it a horrible
experience. Business travelers need to arrive comfortable and stress free, and vacationers
want to start relaxing and enjoying their flight to their destination.
Airlines, take note, if you continue to harass the public, eventually no one will want to fly.
This is not rocket science. Treat clients well and they will come.

Toni StimmelThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:25 pm

Long ago I observed that the inclusive airport-to-airport experience was reminiscent of the bus_station-to-bus_station experience of the late 1940’s.

mspThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:26 pm

Here’s the thing.and believe me….I am not supporting extra airline charges.
If were and could break down the revenue sources of airlines……I think we would find that
bereavement and emergency medical flights to be with loved ones are a bigger part of
the airline revenue picture than one would think…years ago in the days meof turbo props
and the early jets and before Jimmy Carter’s dereg of the airlines……bereavement
could be more readily accomodated because of ulthe then excessively high cost to fly.,
not withstanding the relatively cheap cost of fule..then with deregulations and “competative” pricing and beginnings of surging fule prices and the large number
of folks who fly in emergencies and the micromanaging of Wall Street analysts, Airlines decided they could no longer be so benevalent fo those of us who must fly for emergnecy
purposes and so along with this and such the airlines lost their soals along the way.
pricing and b

JeffThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:27 pm

Mike,

You never miss a chance to highlight yet another school shooting. Yes, the shootings are tragic, but at least the victims had somewhat of a chance. What about the unborn that we abort by the hundreds every single day of the year? What chance do they have? And yet, you never, ever mention it. My gut tells me that you are just another “socially liberal, fiscally conservative” news peddler. Good luck to you on Judgment Day.

Jeff

KaseyThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:29 pm

The only solution to this airline nonsense is for us to vote with our feet; do everything you can to avoid using airlines. It is now quicker, and much less expensive, to drive from my home in West Virginia to Washington DC when you consider distance to the airport, security, wait times, delays, waiting for bags, etc., and you avoid the rudeness and poor service that comes from people who think they have a monopoly, and the nastiness of fellow passengers who are rightfully upset at the airlines. Only when demand dries up because “we are not going to take it any more” will things improve. Lets all take another look at the train, the bus, driving ourselves, and using the internet for on-line meetings.

jeffThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:42 pm

To Mike Larson—-STOP winning!!!!!——about Airlines that is—-if you don,t like it drive.

Jeff's Spelling TeacherFriday, November 21, 2014 at 2:26 pm

“STOP winning ” you say. Does that mean, “Stop winning on the stock market” or perhaps “Stop winning at the casino”?

Now, if what you TRIED to say, Student Jeff, is “STOP whining” (like “whining, sniveling, and belly-aching”) you need to write your misspelled word ten times correctly and use it in a sentence.

“Sniveling?” – I always thought that it was spelt “snivelling” – very poor spelling, back to school you go as well!

Donald LinkThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:46 pm

By their thoughtless actions, the airlines will have no one to blame but themselves when the government, in its usual hamhanded manner, re-regulates the airlines. Some politician will see an opportunity to make a name for himself and introduce such a bill. The rest of congress, fearing the voters, will go along with it.

WilliamFriday, November 21, 2014 at 9:05 am

Scott, you make an excellent point as succinctly as possible. You made my very first point for me. Thank you. Mr. Link, you are a perfect example of the insidiously successful mind games Corporate America has used on the electorate to effect its plan of avoiding a higher authority’s oversight to prevent its irresponsible decisions in managing industries which affect large portions of the population.

I guess you are a 30- maybe 40-something Tea Party Republican who has a complaint with a critical national industry but believes in his heart that Federal regulations are inherently evil and are the spawn of socialists who crave big government. You succumbed to the Kool-Aid. Do yourself a favor and struggle through a trip down memory lane.

During my 50-year career, I flew commercial airlines as far West as Hawaii, as far South as Mexico City, and as far East as England and central Europe. Thankfully, I did not make it to South America, East Europe, or Asia. Australia would have been great, but I never had the opportunity. Between 1970 and 2002, in addition to a wide variety of destinations, I consistently traveled on a weekly basis during four different periods. My American Airlines AAdvantage card was issued so long ago that the card number is all digits. Not many of them around these days.

Jimmy Carter, our friendly peanut farmer President, was a regulation phobic Republican masquerading as a Southern Democrat when he deregulated the airline industry in 1978. The Civil Aeronautics Board had authority to regulate interstate air travel from 1938 to 1978 as basically a public utility. During those 40 years CAB’s regulation absolutely guaranteed that domestic airlines would be profitable year after year, and our airline industry became the absolute envy of the world. Does that sound familiar ?

After deregulation, the wheels started to come off the entire industry. If I remember correctly, Braniff International was the first airline to declare bankruptcy within 3-4 years of deregulation. On that fateful day, I had dinner in the Seven Continents dining room at ORD, then walked down to my gate about 7:00 PM where I encountered a weeping female Braniff agent. Braniff just stopped running and left several thousand of us stranded around the country with no notice whatsoever.

How about TWA and Pan AM – bankrupt and gone. Since 2000, every legacy carrier in the United States has filed bankruptcy at least once, several have filed multiple times. If I am not mistaken, American has filed three times. Between 1938 and 1978 with CAB’s oversight, no bankruptcies. Since then, musical chairs.

To quote Wikipedia, “One of the key elements deregulation sought to end were airline oligopolies and monopolies. However, since 2010 the number of major airlines has receded dramatically…” Does that aspect of deregulation sound familiar, like maybe, super banks created by irresponsible mergers that are now “too big to fail” ?

I’ll tell you a short story about post deregulation competition. In 2000, a new startup airline by the name of Legend Airlines started flying out of Dallas Love Field to LA, DC, NYC and Las Vegas. All were destinations to which I flew very, very often.

Legend flew DC-9 aircraft reconfigured with 56 First Class seats which satisfied the Wright Amendment, a regulation put in place 30 years previously to protect American and DFW, and provided passengers with an affordable super business class – First Class seats and leg room, First Class meals on real china, TV in the seat backs, all for coach fares. My American AAdvantage card had in excess of 250,000 unused miles, but I flew Legend AT EVERY OPPORTUNITY.

American tried to complete, but it could not, so it started suing Legend over the use of Love Field, and every time a court would rule in Legend’s favor, American would appeal to the next higher court. American had no case, but the law of the Corporate Jungle is that if you cannot compete, sue them into oblivion. Financial newspapers observed that the millions spent defending itself against a baseless law suit was the primary factor in Legend’s failure. American filed bankruptcy again a couple years later. Oh, poor baby.

Is not unregulated free enterprise a grand idea ? An unregulated airline industry in shambles is not near as scary as an out-of-control, unregulated banking industry or Wall Street.

You folks who have expressed your displeasure with the airline industry in this blog should maybe spit out the Tea Party Kool-Aid and revisit the idea of responsible Federal regulations or you might wake up one day without a banking system or any money. That will make a dysfunctional airline system seem like a trip to Disney Land. The clock is ticking, my friends.

MarkThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:48 pm

Even so-called high rollers are getting ripped off. We flew domestic first class (supposedly) for a 10th anniversary vacation recently on US Airways and American, using miles. On the flight out on US Airways, they had NO champagne on board at all. On the American flight back, there was 1 bottle total. 30 years ago there were great meals on these flights, I flew AA all the time. Now even in 1st it’s a dinky little cold sandwich with bag of nuts and a cookie. These tickets without miles would have cost $1000 per person each way. For that kind of additional charge (or double the mileage), you’d think you’d get something worthwhile extra. But the service was a joke. Flight attendants in 1st class pretty much hide away, not checking on their guests as they did in the past. Cheaper to ignore them than to serve them drinks or food. About the only “perk” you get is not having to pay for checked baggage. But many airline-affiliated credit cards give you that perk anyway when you charge your ticket on it, so that’s not that big a deal either. Really disappointing. From now one, will save the extra miles for international 1st class or international business, where there’s still some style and service.

John IllinoisThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:49 pm

I had to fly to San Francisco last year for a funeral. I have no intention of ever getting on an airplane again. I have mobility problems, so get a wheelchair ride through the airports. Airports are bad. Airplanes are bad. Air travel is bad.

Joe CThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:53 pm

Why can you gripe about the way some company runs it’s business ? It’s THEIR business!
If you don’t like what JetBlue is doing, quit griping and do what makes you happy.
If you can’t find an airline you like in Coach, maybe you should ask youself why you don’t fly First Class…….
I’ll be interested to see if you have the strength to publish this.

KeithThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:55 pm

Some of the things you say tells me you may not be subscribed to
Simon Black’s Daily Sovereign Man letter.. We all know including You that

Jim Rickards has a bunch of in-depth info that You need to know..
And Leif Simon falls in the same category of knowledge to share..
You obviously are not yet thinking about voting with your feet..
You’ll be sorrrrrrrry!!!!

Rick SandfordThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:58 pm

Hi, Mike,
I retired from a major airline which carries freight back in March. Since then, I have driven over 13,000 miles in my personal and rental cars to do photography. It is my retirement plan to stay interested in something and my mind occupied. My family and friends wonder why I don’t get on an airplane and be “there” in a few hours, let alone the days it would take me to drive across the country. As a crew member, I had a little bit of discretion when traveling to my work locations, and got very little preferential treatment by TSA folks. But the days of easy airline travel are over for me, so I do like Jeff above suggests, I DRIVE!!! I refuse to put up with TSA people rummaging through my stuff and possibly breaking my camera gear; backscatter X-ray machines that cause cancer; maybe catching the flu, bad cold, or, Heaven forbid, Ebola, in an airplane; just the drive alone to and from the airport can kill you;still no liquids allowed through security, making coffee, water and anything else you buy inside, exorbitant; a cancelled flight and you may as well go home, unless you are one of the lucky ones with super ultra platinum level and get on the next flight out, because the schedule has been cut back and small airplanes fill the sky so there isn’t room on the next flight out for three days; those premium seats you mention are just BS – absolutely no difference in any of them, legroom the same and access the same anyway; bad customer service and bad weather and bad experiences; carry on bags brought by everyone wanting to avoid the fees, and making your departure late, even though there is no prayer of all those bags EVER fitting into the overhead bins or under the seats in front of you, etc. I have found with all my commuting over the last 10 years or so that if the destination is within 4 hours driving time, it is better to just do that, drive instead of fly. But nowadays if I cannot drive to the destination, then it isn’t a destination. No more plans to get on any kind of airplane again.

DavidSaturday, November 22, 2014 at 5:20 pm

Ditto, Rick. Commercial pilot for 30 years here. Retiring very soon. No more airlines for me after that. Highways, my own small plane or stay home. This industry has ruined itself and become an embarrassment. I can’t believe the American public is still supporting it with their hard earned dollars.

EdyThursday, November 20, 2014 at 5:58 pm

45 days before actual travel day, I booked a flight using FF Miles from Orange County, Calif. for my son who is 6’5″ tall to Atla. Ga. I paid $79.00 extra for him to sit in an economy comfort seat. Long story short, they changed his seat 4 times, putting him in a middle seat on row 34. All without notifing us. After 2 1/2 hrs on the phone and 5000 extra mile they placed him in 1st class on the 1st leg. On the trip back to Calif. they changed his seat 4 times, again I was on phone total of 3 hrs. after the changes. 5 hrs. before his flight they changed it again.
I was able to get him a seat with leg room back home but
what is the use in paying extra for comfort when you may not be able to sit there. And what is the advantage in using FF Miles when it is not guaranteed. Delta is NOT my favorite airliner anymore.

ianThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:00 pm

We got our own problems over this side of the pond,we are allowed hand luggage free,but we are charged £40 ($60) per suitcase,It used to be free.Hell even Ryian Air wanted to charge $1.50 for every trip to the toilet but relented after a public outcry.A 3 hour trip, was free meal,no more,silly prices for a sandwich and a drink.

John HuynhThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:06 pm

It is about supplies and demands. People keep flying so airlines charge what they think they can charge. I do not fly enough to know about good airlines. It is unfortunate that no airlines executive would make a stand and provide a clear competitve advantage. If people stop flying, the message will be loud. I live in the San Francisco Bay Area and we used to fly to Southern California for Thanksgiving. This year, our family of four will drive. It will take 6 hours driving but we will have our own car. Flying on Thanksgiving requires us to take a cab to the airport and get there an hour ahead of time. Renting a car will take another half an hour. By the time you arrive, it will be 3-4 hours and the same thing going back. And you will have to deal with the “not so friendly TSA people”. Driving makes sense, at least for our family. $50 for gas each way and some savings for a nice meal in Southern California.

Carol W.Thursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:17 pm

All I read from you is a constant, underlying, Wah,Wah. Poor me; poor you. We don’t have as much money as the rich, ’cause big business is fleecing us all. For cripes sakes, you’re an investment guru, get a grip—and start doing what the rich–and successful–have been doing that got them to where they are —making money—despite the obstacles. Your energies would be better directed, rather than squandered in victimized, negative dribble.

PaulThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:20 pm

I am based overseas in the Middle East where service still matters – my favorites Qatar Airways and Etihad. When I return to the USA it is by business/first and the contrast in service and comfort is dramatic. Domestic US airplanes are like cattle trucks compared to the overseas competition even at the front of the airplane – very distressing to see this progressive degradation in quality in the USA over the half century that I have been flying both locally and internationally. The positive side is that relative to running my own plane the passenger mile cost of the major US airlines is very cheap, and I cannot compete on price, allowing access to flight by a large percentage of the population who would otherwise be priced out of this method of transport.

ScottThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:22 pm

I fly over 150,000 miles per year almost all internationally. Beyond a doubt US carriers have the worse service and least “friendly” staff. An industry we were a world leader in developing and now find ourselves at the bottom of the ranks in quality and service. Open the American domestic market to international carrier competition and see how long US major airlines last.

Rob UThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:31 pm

Ever since 9/11 air travel has gone downhill. The whole process is easy too annoying for meto deal with. I only travel by air when it’s absolutely necessary. All the airlines are homogeneous and they all suck!

ChuckThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:39 pm

Flew JetBlue to Boston two years ago and appreciated the no baggage fees and the extra leg room even though I’m only 5’7″. I appreciated it even more after an 8+ hour flight from Dallas/Fortworth into Honolulu with only snacks and cramped seating. We’ve all read of people having heart attacks and strokes due to blood clots in legs on long trips. Isn’t it time the FAA or some university conducted a study of how many people the airlines are killing with their cramped seating? A few wrongful death lawsuits might make the airlines reconsider their seating strategies. I’d sure be willing to contribute $50 to help fund such a study!

Dick VailThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:42 pm

I think you were just being to polite. But, then what difference does it make (Have you heard that line before?) They are going to cram anything at you they like and you’ll accept it, because you really have no choice.

Fed up with the airlinesThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:44 pm

The key here is that the Airline industry is not held up to the standards by which most other businesses in our society abide. In virtually any other industry a person is not charged for services that are not rendered, and other than “special order” products customers are allowed a full refund or at best a small “restocking fee” that is a small percentage of a purchase. For Airlines you are hit with rediculous penalties for missing a flight, no matter what the reason (other than Southwest) that a traveler must basically lose the entire cost of what they had spent. At the very least a customer should be able to get the credit for the full amount of the cost of a ticket, regardless of the reason the flight was not taken, since the service was not rendered. Even if they gave us a year to use the credit (as Southwest does) that would be acceptable. The baggage fees are a simple method to make more money, my opinion is they should just charge us what it costs to have two bags under the plane per passenger as they did in the old days, and increase the cost of the ticket… we are all adults, we know when we are being nickeled and dimed for more money, and don’t think for a minute that bag fees are not figured in my us customers when we book our flights… we’ll always go with the lower cost combination of ticket and baggage price when possible or necessary. And what happens when the bags don’t arrive or get lost for good? We should get our fees back – another service not rendered so why should the airline be able to screw that up for us and still get paid for it? These kinds of things should be national policy, not made up with rediculous terms as the airlines provide them now. If you have not noticed, flight prices are not dropping year to year, they are increasing… I’m all for companies providing a service and making money, but not under these circumstances. And for those who think I’m complaining, I vote with my dollar and fly either Southwest or any airline I have status on so that I can avoid baggage fees. I do not expect anything in the way of service from the airlines otherwise, I just don’t like getting ripped off and being stuck in positions with no recourse when it comes to the large investment I make in air travel costs.

Phil WThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:45 pm

Flying is not what it used to be, and last minute family flying is much worse. The airlines are done providing an adventure; now it’s all about the bottom line. But of all the options, flying Southwest is the best. With no seat assignments, and 24 hours prior to flight check-in prioritization, you can get accommodated without having to pay extra. I’ve also found flyers on LUV to be somewhat more civilized.

Phil WThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:55 pm

With respect to the Germans, it is high time they lightened up a bit on the “Arbeit Macht Frei” motto they had emblazoned on all their WWII concentration camps. Perhaps Larry Edelson can send them a copy of his research showing they won’t be overcome by hyperinflation if they do anything to stimulate the European economy.

frank cerconeThursday, November 20, 2014 at 6:59 pm

Karma..WILL LEVEL THE PLAYING FIELD and when it does the airlines will wished that they were a little more considerate with the flying public. If the rail system were more functional and had high speed trains the airlines would be in BIG trouble ,they would be singing a different tune.

Mary KiewlakThursday, November 20, 2014 at 7:05 pm

Everything you said about flying is correct. Add to that the horrible experience within the airports themselves: the flight delays at Ohare, the suitcase nazi at the USAir counter in Vegas, the F terminal at Philadelphia Int. AKA the 7th circle of hell (ditto for the commuter terminal at Newark), and flying has become an all around miserable experience – an unfortunate necessary evil to get from A to B.

jonSaturday, November 29, 2014 at 4:59 am

B4 u label someone a nazi, u ought to watch some documentary films that show what nazis did to people. not allowing an oversized bag is a 1st world, 21st century problem. whine much?

NanThursday, November 20, 2014 at 7:06 pm

It seems this is putting the horse before the cart. The previous CEO was hounded about offering the custmers too much. What!!!! Is this all about stockholder value?? What happened to people Investing in a company because it is well run and providing a good product/service? It’s now all about manipulating the market and to hell with the customer. Sad to see Jet Blue is now just another big business screwing their customers. Sad to see America’s so called business ethic degenerated into short term market prices. Just sad.

tommrThursday, November 20, 2014 at 7:07 pm

I don’t think that anyone can disagree with you Mike, flying anywhere on any commercial carrier has become a miserable, frustrating and annoying experience.

Paul in Myrtle BeachThursday, November 20, 2014 at 7:29 pm

Flying has basically sucked since 9/11. Customer service is no longer a priority. Jet Blue had a distinct competitive advantage and caved. Take it or leave it. I never understood why airlines didn’t charge enough years ago. Price wars, consumer gets used to low rates, everybody loses money. If I had a billion dollars, I wouldn’t start an airline.
Good luck to everyone flying home for Thanksgiving!

EdThursday, November 20, 2014 at 7:32 pm

I used to fly 50-100 thousand miles a year. Back then, flying was a bit of an adventure. Today, it’s an indignity. I will go to great lengths to avoid getting on board a commercial aircraft. If I can’t drive, I’d prefer to forego the trip. I’ve reduced my commercial flights to no more than 1 – 2 per year, generally for family events.

DwaineThursday, November 20, 2014 at 7:41 pm

Capitalism at work. If enough people would decide to not take the airlines, airlines would have to re-adjust their greed. We could choose to vacation closer to home and drive, take a bus or take a train (this might even be a novel idea). Businesses may decide to telecommute instead of flying. Supply and demand. The airlines are getting away with it because we crave convenience. If we want them to change, we must change as well till they get the hint.

DennisSaturday, November 22, 2014 at 9:39 am

As we said in the “old days”…Right On!

RandyThursday, November 20, 2014 at 7:50 pm

Well Mike, you did a pretty good launch on the airline industry today. I work for a major airline, so I certainly understand your pain. A couple points to make. First, take into account the cost of a ticket from point A to B today, and the value of the dollar from the early 70’s to today; you are well aware the dollar is worth very much less. If you look at ticket prices then compared to today, your ticket prices are actually cheaper. Customer demand for lower ticket prices, and refusal to pay more forced the airlines to find ways to make additional revenue to offset the revenue lost for artificially lower prices, hence you see fees for everything under the sun. Second, take a look at the profit margins over time in the airline industry. The margin is significantly lower than any other major industry. Yes, fuel prices are down, but when they were up, most airlines scraped a relatively low (or no) profit, so they have a lot of catching up to do. The other thing I’ve observed in the industry is the pressure of Wall Street. The Street has been hammering JetBlue for a number of years on their profit margins. Sure, the customers love the airline, but Wall Street has hammered them on the lack of improving their net profit and consequently holding down their stock value. Did you notice the significant jump in JetBlue stock after their announcement? For the Boards of Directors, pushing the bottom line and gaining approval of Wall Street is a big deal. Most boards will “cave” to that pressure.

H. Craig BradleyThursday, November 20, 2014 at 7:54 pm

TERRORISM CHANGED AIRLINES AND TRAVEL FOREVER

Waaaaaa! More crybabies. Airlines have been pursuing greater profitability any way they can in our slow growth, high commodity price ( fixed costs) domestic environment. The U.S. dollar is still way below its peak on the U.S. Dollar Index in 1985, almost 20 years ago! In a brutally competitive, but heavily regulated environment they have to adapt or perish. Airlines have merged. Airlines have adapted in many other ways, such as by buying Dreamliners from Boeing that get much better mileage than their aging fleets of 747’s. Packing more passengers in the same plane at a higher seat price is part of the deal.

Federal Airport Security procedures (TSA) invoked in response to 9/11 have also complicated the domestic travel situation by driving away discretionary travelers. Business travelers have opted for chartered jets or jet leasing as an alternative to cumbersome commercial airlines. Personally, I avoid stupid zones, which virtually all domestic airports have become. Too much hassle.

If one person causes a “security breach” or a scanner malfunctions at a checkpoint, you are delayed and can miss your flight. Personally, I have better ways to spend my time besides at crowded metropolitan airports with the general public ( dummies). I don’t feel any safer for my inconvenience and higher air travel costs either. Fewer air travelers is a reality after the terrorist attacks 13 years ago. The airlines have no choice left but to extract more revenue from fewer travelers by any means available. Clearly, the “golden age” of air travel in the United States is long over. So, get used to it. Avoid airports whenever possible!

Bob FThursday, November 20, 2014 at 8:01 pm

I used to take commercial flights 3-5 times a week starting in early 1970’s. I’m retired now but still take flights 3-5 times monthly. I’m not sure why people are complaining except, perhaps their memory is faulty. I can fly SW Airlines for 1/4th-1/2th what AA or UA charged in the 1970’s-1980’s even before adjusting for inflation. Maybe the complainers don’t remember that DFW-LGA on AA 288 (a DC10) cost $428 in 1984. I remember because I bought 3 round trip tickets, either LGA-DFW-LGA or DFW-LGA-DFW out of my own pocket every other week in 1984-1985. The same flights costs about the same price today. Where else can you buy a service consisting primarily of fuel and labor that costs the same or less than it cost 30-40 years ago?

BTW => Financial newsletters are more expensive than they were 30-40 years ago. ;-)

BTW2 => I never worked for an airline. Always paid retail for tickets. I did know how to get cheaper fares when they ran sales like buying a $99 JFK-LAX fare that stopped at DFW and jumping off there.

Fred Pettit IIIThursday, November 20, 2014 at 8:07 pm

Over the years I have sadly watched as our Airlines, one by one, have slowly deteriorated into what could only be described as just below Buslines, all for the sake of increased revenues except for SouthWest. It is so discouraging to me to observe Jet Blue becoming just another Airline seemingly intent on screwing it’s customers in the name of profit. I am so very grateful SouthWest has risen above the rest and chooses to put the needs and comfort of the customers first. No wonder they are #1 in the US.

Vincent RuschThursday, November 20, 2014 at 8:07 pm

Amtrak !

Mike MaurerThursday, November 20, 2014 at 8:28 pm

First I’d like to pass on that Jeff sits on one of the boards that added more seats to their planes to exacerbate the ‘no’ leg room requirement. They’ll obviously let anyone to sit on the board these days – hence s#:! In = s#:! Out. For all involved in making air travel so miserable, that includes you Jeff, may you all grow to be 6′ on expiration day and spend Purgatory in row 13…middle seats.

At 6’1″, I too cut my air travel by 80% over the past 2 years and put the savings into a top-of-the-line video conferencing system! So much less aggravation that I thank the airlines every day for creating this elegant alternative to travel. Happy trading! Except for you Jeff, you’ve got more than you need from all the extra seats you’ve SQUeeZED in.

Chuck BurtonThursday, November 20, 2014 at 8:38 pm

I haven’t flown anywhere since the Feds began treating passengers like suspects to a crime. ‘Don’t intend to. ‘Recently heard that they have confiscated a dozen firearms from passengers at BWI alone, this year – so far. Mostly, I suppose, people who forgot weapons were in their bags, and now face fines or prison. ‘Can’t help but wonder, if there had been armed passengers, or even the possibility of armed passengers on the four 9-11 planes, a couple of thousand lives might have been saved. Previous anti hi-jack rules may have cost those lives. O K Corral at 35,000 ft. LOL!

david yaleThursday, November 20, 2014 at 9:16 pm

I certainly agree with your comments. I would say however that I have found Southwest to be by far the best carrier, although recently their prices have gone up, some very significantly. Generally however they are courteous and make every effort to help you.
Some years ago after horrible experiences with numerous carriers especially Delta (three hours in the Atlanta airport because of “mechanical problems”) going, and 9 (nine) hours on the return at same airport, I swore if Southwest did not go there, neither would I. Except for two instances, I have managed to stick to that decision.
Ignoring the horrible TSA experiences including theft of CD’s, and bourbon, I find flying more and more frustrating, and have reached the point that if I can drive there in a reasonable amount of time, I do.

TomThursday, November 20, 2014 at 9:41 pm

The air lines should also address the air quality in planes. Get a few people with a bacterial or virus infection and jus think about all the dirt, mold and mildew in the carpets and cloth seats….sophisticated carbon filters and a ultra violet lamp would do wonders for air quality!

TavrosThursday, November 20, 2014 at 9:52 pm

You arecabsolutelybright on all these points. Especially the deterioration of service at more expense!

A DobrskiThursday, November 20, 2014 at 9:53 pm

Having flown millions of miles since 1956, I have to agree that service has declined, however me thinks ” the lady protesteth too much” as Shakeseare might say!
If you look at what I paid back then and even in more so recent times, air fares have decreased considerably. So if you buy the cheapest seat on the plane do not complain if they charge for anything extra. In the old days you did not get an option!!

Judith LevinThursday, November 20, 2014 at 9:54 pm

The errosion of basic services and even customer service while flying seems to mirror an overall trend in the US economy of “Help Yourself”. We do everything from being a gas station attendant, stock broker, travel agent, secretary, and computer expert,… down to printing our own boarding passes and even ebooks if you want a hard copy. We all know the short term benefits, that is why we do those things, but the long term quality of life issues that come as people feel pressured to be busier, or frustrated by the accelerating pace of change, or lets face it – terrified by the lack of morality and rampant greed, beg that we take control of the only thing we can influence, the choices we make each moment. Does this choice promote the long term benefit and happiness of myself, my community, my country, and future generations? Heartfelt customer service, kindness, and providing for quality of experience improves the world we live in.

AlanThursday, November 20, 2014 at 10:17 pm

The only people I trust more than women walking the streets late at night are the airlines.Fuel goes up, prices go up. Fuel goes down, prices go up. The consumer can not win.

Michael5152Thursday, November 20, 2014 at 10:39 pm

I live in South Africa and see the effects of weak commodity prices on our economy. We see the effects of unemployment and the very skewed distribution of wealth and wonder if this will ever end. We already suspect that commodity prices are being manipulated for the benefit of the very few.

Theworld depression seems to have no end in sight.

George YerganianThursday, November 20, 2014 at 10:40 pm

Over the past 60 years of biological research, my laboratory’s most unique rodent models continue to be requested by researchers and shipped worldwide. However, the air shipping rate has risen almost 10-fold since 9/11.

Today, the contents of a plastic filtered rodent shipping crate, bearing up to 6 animals, feed, and a water source, is designed for easy viewing of the internal contents. Presently, the cost of shipping such a crate anywhere in the USA varies from $400 to $600. This charge includes an average of $80, listed as a fuel surcharge, and another $25.00 for Airport Security. Until some 6 years ago, the cost of a transcontinental shipment of the same item rarely exceeded $65.00!

With fuel prices decreasing lately, I look forward to when (and if) the fuel surcharge is lowered proportionately.

LoraThursday, November 20, 2014 at 10:47 pm

Another option is to delay the funeral service, or designate the funeral service at an opportune time for local people, but delay the interment. That was necessary when my father died in the fifties and the Red Cross had to contact my brother stationed in Okinawa and giving him time to arrive back in the states and then to NYS. He just passed away a few days ago, wanted to be cremated and burial will eventually be in Arlington Natl. Cemetery as a USN pilot off a carrier in the Koren War. We will have a Celebration of Life at that time rather than a heart-wrenching funeral.

RobertThursday, November 20, 2014 at 10:49 pm

Flying really has become the pits and anyone calling what is happening an “upgrade” has to be wacky or a politician. We travel quite a bit and people are larger with seats smaller and less comfortable so it is not much fun anymore. I am in the process of applying for Global Entry or pre-check for all flights and look forward to that.

KevinThursday, November 20, 2014 at 11:11 pm

I live in Canada and work in California
I fly Alaska and love it
With air Canada it’s 50-50 that you will have luggage at the other end
Alaska has screwed up my luggage 3 times in 6 years and it only happens
When I show up with 10 min to boarding
I would rather walk to California than fly my national airline
Who lives on tax dollar handouts and bad service
I hope one day west jet puts AC to bed for ever !

KevinThursday, November 20, 2014 at 11:13 pm

Ps
As MVP
I get first class 50% of the time
With Alaska
And even better service

jerryThursday, November 20, 2014 at 11:41 pm

we use the airlines because we have to.Their pricing is as if they are a monopoly. It’s time for the government, I believe the FAA, to reset the rules and regulations that were in effect in the 50 and 60″s.

There is no service being offered today. It’s take it or leave it. I’m leaving it and using it less as compared to 10 to 18 trips a year. I have it down to 6 or so.

Helen KantorowiczThursday, November 20, 2014 at 11:44 pm

I’ have comment about airlines.One week after I’ booked long flight,my carrier cancelled second leg. There was no apology for the hassle and inconvenience to book worse flight with longer layover. Customer service told me,it is normal and also happens with other carriers. There is no compensation. If you are in economic class you are treated like prisoner.You have pay extra charges for everything from seats to baggage. You get only 1 meal free in 13.5 hour of flight.If you go after long layover to connecting flight ,no free food for another 6.5 hours.You have less flights choices and have been grateful for privilege to fly. It is about time ,that travelers boycott these greedy airlines and declare no flight for week at least.Even when gas price drops,they charge more,add extra 15 seats,with even less legroom .I’ don’t know ,what other surprises I’ can expect from them .

PhyllisoficalThursday, November 20, 2014 at 11:54 pm

Flying has become so uncomfortable a way to travel that we try to drive or take a train to destinations instead of going through the frustration of air travel. I am a very tall person and shrinking legroom makes flying an exercise in torture. We vacation and travel more regionally instead of visiting distant locations primarily because of the degradation of the flight experience.

Richard BerggrenFriday, November 21, 2014 at 12:14 am

Let’s see now. We should buy the stock of Bank X or Y or Z regardless of the fact that they have put people out of homes they never should have been able to but in the first place. We should buy Exxon because it has a wonderful track record of paying dividends. We should buy energy stocks of companies that ignore pollution for the sake of paying us a dividend. But you want to complain about the airlines squeezing you in to and ever smaller space because it makes you uncomfortable. Isn’t that kind of picking and choosing your favorite, or least favorite, form of robber baron behavior? If it makes you money but doesn’t inconvenience you, it doesn’t matter whether they are good stewards of our environment. But if it causes you personal discomfort, oh do you squeal.

RobertFriday, November 21, 2014 at 12:27 am

Totally agree with you. I work for a major airline and I see it every day the high rollers get everything for free. Free upgrade to 1st Class, free 2 checked baggage, free premium seating, free priority boarding, yes there is a fee to board in the priority lines! By the way high rollers pay and average of about $0 to $200 dollars. Of course the $0 part is mileage accrued. The low rollers pay an average of $300 to $1000 dollars. Oh I forgot the high rollers get free meal service and drinks as well. We don’t! I’m just saying.

Ken WilsonFriday, November 21, 2014 at 12:41 am

People are getting gouged by the airlines. The only decent company is Southwest and we should try to use them as much as possible. And ‘no’, I do not own any of their stock nor do I work for them.

knutFriday, November 21, 2014 at 1:55 am

Mike,
what seams to be strange is: Once upon a time when we did not like something a store or airline was trying to sell us, we simply would not by that product or service anymore. Nowadays, everyone complains but never actualy takes any personal action to do something about their grievance. If everyone who is sick and tired of bad airlines stops using them and only picks the airlines which offer good service, how long do you think the others can survive. You remember the credit card charges to have a card? Once one credit card provider started giving his card for nothing and everyone flocked to it, the charges stopped on most of them. At the end, the consumer still has the power to change everything, if he is willing to make his point. No company or politician can survive if we do not buy their products. Sadly though, everyone just talks, since taking action seams to be more of an inconvinience then bad service.

TomFriday, November 21, 2014 at 2:29 am

I am old enough to remember the ‘Golden Era of Commercial Aviation’ when the food was almost good, drinks were free, the seats had legroom and the flight attendants were ‘Stewardesses”. It is a bygone era.

I fly extensively both domestically and internationally. I refuse to fly US flagged carriers internationally. The only reason that I fly Delta, United and American inside the USA is because COPA, Eremites and Singapore Air do not fly US domestic routes. Those Airlines among others like Thai Airways, Cathay Pacific and Korean Air are do vastly superior to the US flagged carriers that it is laughable.

The only remaining US carrier that is worth flying is southwest and soon they will be as bad as the rest. I am staunchly against over regulation by the government but a strong case can be made for regulating airlines!!!

John S. Butler@ntlworld.comFriday, November 21, 2014 at 6:26 am

Hi from the UK,

If you are travelling in (5 days – say) why don’t you send your extra clothes and other items by UPS. It may cost you less. If you are travelling in that manner use clothes etc that you were going to throw away.

Kind Regards

John B.

David LeeFriday, November 21, 2014 at 8:16 am

I’ve been travelling for 25 years for business and the last 5 years have been the worst. I’m only 5′ 7″, 155lbs and I find the room on these planes too small. I can’t stand flying anymore and I tend to only drive to closer places for vacation. I agree with your article fully, you pay more, for less room, less service and more hassles. Not to mention airport security that changes their mind monthly as to whether you take out your computer or strip every article of clothing and every paper from your pockets. If I didn’t have to fly, I wouldn’t.

Ruth E.Friday, November 21, 2014 at 8:55 am

I’m old enough to remember when flying was a special treat to be anticipated and enjoyed. Now it’s an ordeal to be endured.

JohnFriday, November 21, 2014 at 9:05 am

Another example of why my wife and I do not fly unless absolutely necessary. Wouldn’t it be nice if we had high speed rail travel as an option? I find it very interesting that people constantly gripe about air travel to everyone but their Congressman (woman). Folks, until people make this a political issue things are going to get worse. Airlines are talking about developing “standing seats” and reducing the number of lavatories.

Mike SFriday, November 21, 2014 at 10:07 am

Your organization has always expressed “Conservative” views… Well, the voters were “convinced” in 1982 that you were right and since then the Middle Class has gotten crushed and the Ultra Rich have gotten richer… Somewhere in the near future, the voters are going to realize (finally) that they got hoodwinked and they will revolt, just as they did in 1932 and they will vote in leadership that will look after the average citizen rather than the Ultra Wealthy and once again, we will get back to being the successful democracy that we were from 1932-1982…. And, once again, with government oversight, air travel will again be “civilized” rather than a “ripoff”…

Charles SmithFriday, November 21, 2014 at 12:31 pm

The ripoffs by the other airlines is exactly why I fly almost exclusively on Southwest Airlines. The only exception is when I am flying outside the continental US.

Comrade BovineshitskiFriday, November 21, 2014 at 2:50 pm

Comrade Bovineshitski remember Good Old Days on Aeroflot in Soviet Union. Then we really know about service with smile and shot of vodka! Aeroflot always best airline in Soviet Union because Aeroflot ONLY airline in Soviet Union! That joke is only thing funny about Aeroflot, except everything else.

Now in America like Good Old Days in Soviet Union!

Aeroflot is abbreviation in Russian; in English you way “United-Delta-American Flying Leviathan of Torture” or you can say UDA-flot, but some call then DeltaFlot, UnitedFlot, and AmeriFlot. Now matter what your “–flot,” it is Same Great Service, Comrade!

Now, get in line, take off shoes and coats and hats and animal skins, bend over, and prepare to travel.

Cal WagnerFriday, November 21, 2014 at 3:17 pm

Mike: “… sorer …” Really? I hope your next flight is back to basic English school.

Meanwhile,… The airlines get away with this crap because all of you lambs of the flock let them do it. Learn to make other arrangements and simply de-prioritize the planned travel. Boycott the industry; stay home and visit the library instead or flying wherever for vacation. If you can’t drive to the funeral, just send a card. Make your own decisions instead of allowing others to push you into their way of doing things.

Charles E. KanterFriday, November 21, 2014 at 4:24 pm

On a recent flight from Sydney to Los Angeles, (13hrs) I had the terrifying misfortune to be crammed into a middle seat in a middle three seat section. Since the isles are so narrow that it is difficult to be comfortable because of the constant traffic to the toilets, food carts, etc. Since there are isles on both sides of you, means any break you might get from the middle next to a window seat is lost and you have pressure from both sides in you 17 inch seat. If either person is big, so they overflow their seat anyway, you are doomed. Thus it was on my recent trip. Complaining to staff was a trip to the twilight zone as they accused me of being the problem and wanted me to pay $150 for a seat right in front of the entrance to the toilet. My next trip from Florida to California will be by train.

Jhn DraughonFriday, November 21, 2014 at 4:30 pm

Wardair used to be so good a few decades ago that even on great trips like to Hawaii, the flight was the best part of the vacation. Unfortunately, they went out of business because all their expenses were in US dollars and their revenue was in Canadian dollars which was too tight a squeeze with the $c so low at the time. One would think that someone would try that kind of service again. I’d think it would be so popular that you couldn’t get a seat.

Today most firms that interact with the public seem to think the more you neglect and abuse the customer, the better it is for the company.

Karl WetzelFriday, November 21, 2014 at 5:24 pm

Your comments regarding flying are spot-on. If you can drive to your destination in less than a day, drive, don’t fly. I read the other day where the airlines from the Mid-East still cater to passengers. Maybe someone can convince Emirates to fly within the U. S. The airline industry needs some real competition.

PattiFriday, November 21, 2014 at 7:23 pm

Recently flew from Oakland to Dulles, with a plane change in Salt Lake City. Checked three bags … only two made it … the third went to Denver. It took them (SouthWest) 24 hours to find it and send it to Dulles, but I had to drive back to the airport (a 3+ hour round trip) to pick it up. Also cost me $5.00 to park at the airport for just 12 minutes while I retrieved the suitcase … I was refused parking validation. I used to wonder why so many people would bring on-board their luggage and try to stuff it into the overhead bins when you could check it for free … not any more. Also really liked the email I received from JetBlue announcing their new baggage fee policy and new ‘lighter’ seats as upgrades!

terryFriday, November 21, 2014 at 11:34 pm

What a great opportunity for some folks to make a difference and give you a reason to fly with them. Service will out do cheap and those customer will cost less in the long run.
I recall Sears when it began it’s end of the number one retail giant and what they cut was service!

JoshuaSaturday, November 22, 2014 at 12:03 am

The airlines are now profitable. This is a far cry from their precarious financials when I worked for them 15 years ago. Yes, pre 9-11. As for bereavement fares there is one airline that still offers them. Last year in Nov. my father-in-law died. My step-daughter was in Provo, UT

JoshuaSaturday, November 22, 2014 at 12:09 am

Delta Airlines flew her to the funeral with a bereavement fare. They also had a very personal touch. I could not book the fare online. I had to call a ticket agent to book it. When I told them what I needed they were very understanding, but they asked for the name of the deceased and the name of the mortuary conducting the funeral. They also made every effort to try to be consoling.

MarieSaturday, November 22, 2014 at 9:49 am

JetBlue has been my favorite airline until now.

I’m 6 feet tall so routinely buy the extra legroom seats. At $20 – $35, but still a free bag, I had no problem with that. However, my most recent flight from Boston to Las Vegas had an extra legroom fee of $65 each way, plus the ticket price has been sneaking up. For my flight coming up in March I used by freaquent flier points for the ticket one way just so I could get the cost of the trip down to a reasonable level with the $130 fee.

Now that they’re going to charge for bags plus reconfigure for less space, they’re becoming just like everybody else. Definitely unfriendly to tall people!

Thomas MooreSaturday, November 22, 2014 at 9:55 am

Mike,
Deregulation threw the baby out with the bath water. Who, and what do you think
you’re dealing with, a benevolent public utility with compassion? The new ‘bean counters’, have made most american carriers giant used car lots. You name the tricks,
and they’re going to be played. You buy your tickets and you really get them punched!
Just be greatful that your party arrived in one piece and you didn’t contract an exotic
disease. What else is new in Obama Land? Hang in there Mike!

Mike SSaturday, November 22, 2014 at 11:00 am

Tom,
Actually the move to deregulation (or rather No Regulation) began with Reagan the patriarch of the Conservative Movement… Also since the then Middle Class has gotten crushed under the GOP Domination as the wealthy have gotten wealthier… You might remember that when you next vote, aye?

That answer to flying issues is easy, DON’t. For domestic business trips if it is less than an 8 hour drive I now slap my audio book into the stereo and drive. Vacationing in the US, we drive. I only fly if absolutely necessary, like traveling to Europe or South America. If we all cut our flying my 50-60% and businesses stopped booking last minute maybe the airlines would wake up from the “stick-it-tooum” mentality and start thinking of us as customers instead of ATMs

lenoreSaturday, November 22, 2014 at 7:35 pm

11-22 Where do I start…I used to love to fly. From the 50’s into the 90’s I looked forward to my airline experiences. Not any more. Unfortunately for all of us who want to, or need to fly, the airlines once they felt the need to start charging for everything, because of their expense for fuel, realized a bonanza they can’t get over. They remind me of the Scrooge complex/ the more money they make the greedier they get, and the less they want to give you. Its bad enough when wheather causes problems, then add to that the nightmare of uncomfortable seating added in to squeeze us closer together, outrageous charges on our bags, no food, or what serves as a snack, along with the smallest of toilets you can hardly turn around in, and Its a wonder why anyone flies at all…all in coach of course. A note: Last time I flew 4 years ago,on a 13 hour flight I decided to try the first class toilet, in spite of the Stewardess’ protest, and to my surprise, it was the same tiny size as coach. Even the money people flying first class with roomy seats don’t have a classy,roomy toilet to indulge in…at least on that particular airlilne. Until the people rise up en-masse and tell the airlines they’re not flying unless absolutely necessary, and why our congress/senate refuses to add their voice to so many of the peoples’ complaints….oh of course, I forgot, the lobbyists wouldn’t let that happen to the airlines…and the congress/senate fly first class, or private class anyway…so why should they care. Sorry, it looks like those who fly will just have to accept the abuse from the airlines.

LarryTuesday, November 25, 2014 at 1:50 pm

I have reduced my flying drastically i.e. if I have to travel, I investigate every alternative and If flying is the only way, I examine if it is really necessary. Airlines have the damnedest business plan ever conceived. Find every possible way to maximize customer physical discomfort, screw ’em over with increasing number of fees, non existent or terrible food, dirty terminal space, uncomfortable waiting areas, etc, etc, etc. Just read today that they are now replacing all their seats with ones 1-1/2″ thick!! VP Ops must have studied under the Marquis de Sade.